Plasma Wash
Plasma Wash
Product Description
A moisture-depositing gel cream cleanser clinically proven to hydrate and restore your skin barrier all day long. This innovative formula uses glycerin depositing compounds to build a sphere of protective moisture that stays on your skin even after rinsing, leaving skin soft, clean, and never tight.
β¨ Texture & Feel
Moisture Depositing Technology
Unique formula uses castoryl maleate to help glycerin stick to skin during rinse-off instead of going down the drain.
Amino Acid Surfactants
Gentle cleansing agents derived from amino acids create a creamy lather without stripping or irritating skin.
Barrier Restoration
Clinically proven to boost skin hydration by 33% eight hours after use, supporting a healthy skin barrier all day.
Single-Step Cleansing
Effectively removes SPF, makeup, and daily gunk without the need for double cleansing for most users.
π‘οΈ Safety & Compatibility
Contains parabens (methylparaben, ethylparaben). No retinoids, salicylic acid, or other known pregnancy-unsafe ingredients. Consult your doctor if concerned about paraben exposure.
NOT fungal acne safe. Contains jojoba oil and fatty acids (stearic, lauric, palmitic, oleic) that can feed Malassezia yeast.
Rating 1/5. Lightweight formula with non-clogging ingredients. Safe for most acne-prone skin types.
Fragrance-free, sulfate-free formula with gentle amino acid surfactants. Clinically tested for all skin types.
π¬ Ingredient Breakdown
π§ Glycerin 15% Proven
The star humectant of this formula. Glycerin attracts water to the skin and is considered one of the most effective hydrators available. Studies show it outperforms hyaluronic acid for sustained hydration.
- Clinical Evidence: Proven to increase skin hydration and strengthen barrier function
- Function: Draws moisture from environment into skin's upper layers
π¬ Castoryl Maleate 0.5% Innovative
The secret MVP of this formula. This lipid look-alike helps glycerin adhere to skin during rinse-off, so hydration stays on your face instead of going down the drain.
- Innovation: Creates a moisture-depositing sphere that survives rinsing
- Function: Binds to glycerin and deposits it on skin surface
π₯₯ Amino Acid Surfactants Gentle
Includes Sodium Cocoyl Glycinate and Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine. These gentle cleansing agents create a light, creamy lather without the harshness of traditional sulfates.
- Sodium Cocoyl Glycinate: Mild amino acid-based surfactant derived from coconut
- Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine: Gentle foam-boosting co-surfactant
π± Jojoba Seed Oil Emollient
Mimics skin's natural sebum to soften and condition. Helps prevent moisture loss and replenish essential lipids stripped by cleansing.
- Composition: Similar to human sebum, absorbs well
- Benefits: Softens skin, reduces post-cleanse tightness
π Malachite Extract Antioxidant
A copper-rich mineral extract that provides antioxidant protection and supports skin detoxification from environmental stressors.
- Source: Natural mineral stone extract
- Function: Antioxidant, supports healthy skin appearance
π Cyanocobalamin (Vitamin B12) Supporting
A form of Vitamin B12 that helps support healthy skin cell function and may have soothing properties.
- Function: Supports skin health and cellular function
- Note: Gives products a subtle pink tint
24 ingredients
Water, Glycerin, Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine, Acrylates Crosspolymer-4, Sodium Cocoyl Glycinate, Sodium Lauroamphoacetate, Stearic Acid, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Sodium Chloride, Castoryl Maleate, Phenoxyethanol, Citric Acid, Stearyl Alcohol, Lauric Acid, Disodium EDTA, Methylparaben, Palmitic Acid, Ethylparaben, Malachite Extract, Oleic Acid, Propylene Glycol, Cetyl Alcohol, Sodium Hydroxide, Cyanocobalamin
π Where It Fits in Your Routine
Use as your primary cleanser morning and evening. Can replace double cleansing for most SPF and makeup removal.
π How to Use
Dispense Product
Squeeze a generous quarter-sized amount into wet hands and work into a light lather.
Massage for 60 Seconds
Apply to wet face and massage in circular motions for about 60 seconds to dissolve dirt, SPF, and makeup. Don't forget your hairline!
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse with lukewarm water. For stubborn waterproof makeup, repeat the processβit's gentle enough for double use.
Continue Routine
Pat dry and follow with your toner, serum, and moisturizer. Your skin should feel soft and hydrated, never tight.
π€ Who Is It For?
β Perfect for you if:
- You have dry, dehydrated, or sensitive skin
- Your face feels tight or stripped after cleansing
- You want to simplify your routine (skip double cleansing)
- You prefer low-foam, cream-like cleansers
- You need a fragrance-free formula
- You appreciate science-backed, clinically proven products
- You want barrier-supporting cleansing
β Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne or Malassezia-related conditions
- You prefer high-foam, squeaky-clean feeling cleansers
- You want a paraben-free formula
- You have very oily skin and want deep oil control
- You wear heavy, waterproof theatrical makeup daily
- You're on a very tight budget (drugstore options are cheaper)
π― Skin Type Compatibility
Specifically designed for dry skin. Moisture-depositing technology leaves skin hydrated, never stripped or tight.
Fragrance-free, gentle amino acid surfactants. Clinically tested and suitable for reactive skin types.
Balances well across different face zones. Won't over-dry cheeks while still effectively cleansing T-zone.
May feel too hydrating for very oily skin. Those who prefer squeaky-clean feeling may want a foaming alternative.
Low comedogenic rating (1/5). However, NOT suitable for fungal acne due to fatty acid content.
π Results Timeline
Soft, Clean Feeling
Skin feels soft, smooth, and hydrated right after rinsing. No tightness or dryness typical of foaming cleansers.
97% noticed soft skinSustained Hydration
Clinical studies show 33% increase in skin hydration lasting 8 hours after use, thanks to the moisture-depositing technology.
33% hydration boost clinically provenBarrier Improvement
With consistent use, you may notice reduced sensitivity, less reactive skin, and improved overall skin comfort.
91% reported improved skin comfortLong-Term Benefits
Healthier skin barrier, consistent hydration levels, and reduced need for heavy moisturizers. Skin appears more balanced and resilient.
Users report healthier barrierβ Ratings by Platform
βοΈ Pros & Cons
β Praised
- Clinically proven 33% hydration boost lasting 8 hours
- Innovative moisture-depositing technology
- Truly fragrance-free (no scent at all)
- Chemist-founded with science-backed formulation
- Effectively removes SPF and makeup in one step
- Never leaves skin tight or stripped
- Gentle enough for twice-daily use
- Vegan and cruelty-free
- Sustainable packaging (70% recycled plastic)
β Criticized
- Not fungal acne safe (contains fatty acids and oils)
- Contains parabens (deal-breaker for some)
- Low foam may feel unfamiliar or ineffective to some
- Higher price per ounce than drugstore options
- May be too hydrating for very oily skin
- Doesn't remove heavy waterproof makeup alone
- Tube packaging less hygienic than pump
π° Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
Similar hydrating, non-foaming formula with ceramides and hyaluronic acid. Lacks the innovative moisture-depositing technology but excellent for dry/sensitive skin at a fraction of the price.
Gentle cream cleanser with prebiotic thermal water, niacinamide, and ceramides. Dermatologist recommended, fragrance-free. No moisture-depositing claims but excellent for sensitive skin.
Luxury alternative with similar bouncy texture that transforms into cleansing milk. Contains AHAs and vitamin C for added benefits. Much higher price point for a more sophisticated formula.
π Comparison with Competitors
Experiment Plasma Wash (This Product)
$22.00 / 5ozCeraVe Hydrating Cleanser
$14.99 / 16ozLa Roche-Posay Toleriane Hydrating
$16.99 / 13.5ozU Beauty The Mantle
$68.00 / 5ozπ¦ Storage & Shelf Life
12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. No refrigeration required.
Squeeze tube with flip-cap. 70% recycled plastic content for sustainability.
Yes, 5oz/150ml exceeds TSA carry-on limit. Transfer to smaller container or pack in checked luggage.
β Frequently Asked Questions
Plasma Wash contains parabens (methylparaben and ethylparaben), which some pregnant individuals prefer to avoid. However, it does NOT contain the major pregnancy no-gos like retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. The parabens used are in small concentrations and are considered safe by most regulatory bodies, but if you're concerned, consult your healthcare provider or consider a paraben-free alternative like CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser.
No, Plasma Wash is NOT fungal acne safe. It contains jojoba oil and several fatty acids (stearic acid, lauric acid, palmitic acid, oleic acid) with carbon chain lengths between C12-C24 that can feed Malassezia yeast. If you have fungal acne, seborrheic dermatitis, or pityrosporum folliculitis, consider La Roche-Posay Toleriane or other fungal-safe cleansers instead.
Yes! Plasma Wash is an excellent cleanser to use with active ingredients because it doesn't strip the skin. Its barrier-supporting formula helps keep skin comfortable even when using potentially irritating actives like retinol or chemical exfoliants. In fact, its hydrating properties may help buffer some of the drying effects of these treatments.
Plasma Wash is best suited for dry, dehydrated, and sensitive skin types. It's also great for combination skin. Those with very oily skin who prefer a squeaky-clean feeling may find it too hydrating or the low foam unsatisfying. It's clinically designed for all skin types, but people who love high-foam cleansers might not enjoy the experience.
You'll notice softer, more hydrated skin immediately after the first use. Clinical studies show a 33% increase in skin hydration lasting 8 hours after just one use. For long-term barrier improvement and reduced skin sensitivity, expect to see cumulative benefits within 2-4 weeks of consistent twice-daily use.
Plasma Wash is your first step, used on wet skin. Use it morning and evening before toner, serum, moisturizer, and sunscreen (AM). It can replace double cleansing for most peopleβit effectively removes SPF and everyday makeup in one step. For heavy waterproof makeup, you may want to use an oil cleanser first.
Plasma Wash has a low comedogenic rating of approximately 1/5. While it contains jojoba oil and some fatty acids, the formula is designed to rinse clean without leaving pore-clogging residue. Most users with acne-prone skin report no issues, but patch testing is always recommended if you're particularly sensitive to breakouts.
Plasma Wash has a PAO (Period After Opening) of 12 months. The 5oz tube typically lasts 4-8 weeks with twice-daily use, depending on how much product you use per cleanse. The parabens in the formula help preserve the product effectively during this time.
Verdict: Experiment Plasma Wash is an innovative, science-backed cleanser that delivers on its promise of moisture-depositing cleansing. The 15% glycerin formula combined with castoryl maleate technology genuinely keeps skin hydrated after rinsingβa rare feat for any cleanser. It's chemist-founded, clinically proven, and perfect for dry, dehydrated, or sensitive skin types. The only drawbacks are its incompatibility with fungal acne, the inclusion of parabens (which some prefer to avoid), and a higher price point than drugstore alternatives. If you've struggled to find a cleanser that doesn't leave your face feeling tight, Plasma Wash is absolutely worth trying.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skinβs own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging Β«promisesΒ» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Anti-Aging from 1 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 2 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 3 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine
Skin Conditioning, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning, Sufactant, Foam Boosting
|
|
|
| 0 |
Acrylates Crosspolymer-4
Emulsion Stabilising
|
|
|
| 1 |
Sodium Cocoyl Glycinate
Skin Conditioning, Surfactant, Hair Conditioning
|
|